DURTY GARAGE: VINTAGE EXPERIENCE
The act of exploring secondhand items in thrift stores has evolved into a widely embraced and dynamic trend. Rooted in the pursuit of affordable treasures. It resonates with those who value economic efficiency while promoting sustainability by giving pre-owned items a second life and reducing the demand for new production. The allure of thrifting lies in the joy of discovering unique vintage pieces, fostering a sense of individuality and personal style. Moreover, this cultural phenomenon has caught the attention of many enthusiasts. To delve deeper into this world, we caught up with "Durty Garage," a passionate young vintage/thrift enthusiast known for sharing rare finds and adding a distinct flair to the vibrant thrifting community.
1. Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Katlego Tsoagong aka Durty Bone and I’m the owner of Durty Garage, a virtual thrift store that services the whole country and neighbouring nations.
2. How did this journey start for you?
It’s a combination of 2 things. Firstly the blog era of Hip Hop (Tumblr), seeing my favourite artists wearing throwback jerseys, tracksuits with elaborate prints etc took me down the rabbit hole of vintage style. Secondly, upon my discovery of vintage stores/places to get 1 of 1 pieces (Shoutout to Sai!), I started selling my dope finds to the homies. That had a snowball effect and I eventually turned this hobby of looking fly into a realistic business opportunity about 6 years ago.
3. How do you authenticate what you find?
“Type it in, Google’s your friend bruh”. Whether it's a simple browser search or a YouTube video, the information is everywhere. My decade-long experience also comes in handy, having run through thousands of pieces in my lifetime.
4. Any stand-out grails you've come up with?
Some of my grails include a Ski 92 puffer, a 90’s MCM Bomber, a Wu Wear t-shirt, an Issey Miyake Rain Jacket, and a Helmut Lang trucker…to name a few. At heart though, I’m a Polo Ralph Lauren guy, especially Polo Sport. That’s my ish!
5. Tell us a bit about what's happening this weekend?
I got a collaborative thrift experience happening on the 2nd and 3rd of March in the lobby of the Shelflife Rosebank store where I will be sharing a bit of what I go through while looking for these gems. Got some of the rarest pieces up for sale, a cool Zine based on the life and times of a Jozi thrift cat, some augmented reality and so much more. Pull up
Details:
Where?
Shelflife Store, Shop 280 & 308A, Rosebank Mall, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196
When?
2nd & 3rd March (Saturday and Sunday)
We've got some firebrands on sale, including but not limited to: Stüssy, Patagonia, Ralph Lauren, Billionaire Boys Club, Kaws x Uniqlo, Supreme, BAPE, Carhartt, Arc’teryx, Kenzo, Helmut Lang, CP Company, Stone Island
F.C.F.S!
We look forward to seeing you there!